Scutum

A scutum (plural scuta) was a type of shield used among Italic peoples and later by soldiers of the Roman army from the early Roman Republic through the Roman Empire. The term is Latin for "shield."

Initially, the scutum was a large, oval shield, similar to the shields used by the Greeks. Around the early 1st century BC, it evolved into the rectangular, curved shield more commonly associated with the Roman legions. This later scutum was typically constructed from plywood strips glued together and covered with canvas and leather. The edges were often reinforced with metal binding, and a metal boss, the umbo, was fitted to the center for added protection.

The curved shape of the scutum offered superior protection compared to flat shields, allowing soldiers to deflect blows more effectively. Its size and shape also facilitated the testudo formation, in which legionaries would interlock their shields to create a near-impenetrable tortoise-like defense.

The scutum was not only a defensive weapon but also served as a tool for offense. Legionaries could use it to push, shove, or even strike opponents, disrupting enemy formations.

The decorations on a scutum varied depending on the unit and the period. During the Roman Empire, legions often displayed their emblem and other identifying symbols on their shields. The scutum was a crucial piece of equipment for the Roman legionary, contributing significantly to the army's effectiveness and its dominance on the battlefield. Eventually, the rectangular scutum was phased out in favor of oval or round shields later in the Roman Empire.